College costs are rising, leaving families stretched and students with long-term debt. In this episode of Escape The Clock, I talk with Rebecca Irey, founder of Blue Skye Financial, about practical strategies to plan smarter, reduce stress, and make college more affordable.

We cover 529 plans, scholarships, community college, and involving kids in the process to help families cover costs without sacrificing financial freedom. Whether your child is years from college or already applying, this episode gives actionable steps to avoid the college debt trap.

Key Talking Points:

• The Rising Price Tag – Why tuition and student debt threaten both family finances and future freedom.
• Funding Smarter – Leveraging 529 plans, FAFSA, and grants to reduce reliance on loans.
• Alternative Pathways – Community college, scholarships, insurance plans, and employer programs that cut costs without cutting quality.
• Shared Responsibility – How involving kids in the process reduces stress and builds financial awareness.
• Practical Steps – Actionable strategies families can take now to make higher education more affordable.

Escape The Clock Resources:

• The Book: www.escapetheclock.com/book
• The Planner: www.escapetheclock.com/planner
• 1:1 Help: www.escapetheclock.com/schedule
• Other Resources: www.escapetheclock.com/resources
• Free Weekly Newsletter: https://bit.ly/etc-news

Episode References & Resources:

• Tuition at public universities has risen 180% over the past 20 years – College Board
• Outstanding U.S. student loan debt exceeds $1.7 trillion – Federal Reserve
• More than $3 billion in Pell Grants went unclaimed in 2023 – National College Attainment Network
• Nearly 40% of students attend community college at some point – National Center for Education Statistics

Connect with Rebecca:

• On the Web: www.blueskyefinancial.com
• Instagram: @blueskye_financial
• LinkedIn: Blue Skye Business
• Facebook: Blue Skye Financial

Subscribe, rate, review, share this episode, or support by getting the book at www.escapetheclock.com/book.

Please note: This information is for educational purposes only and not financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.